Never imagined for one minute that I'd be writing at the end of January, reporting that the Desert Wheatear is still here and still frequenting Staple Newk. Word is, that on some days it can be so obliging as to be almost too close to photograph.
Other things of note over the last few weeks have included an unidentified large, long winged, long legged bird south over the reserve. Thought possibly a Common Crane by the finders at the time, its likely identity may well have been the White Stork that drifted down the Northumberland and Yorkshire Coast the same day, before settling for few days in a field to the south of Bridlington. Also overhead a flock of over 50 White-fronted Geese headed north recently. It has been an excellent year for large flocks of White-fronted Geese, but these birds were a nice surprise none-the-less. A coupe of Twite have recently been reported and although rarely seen the Short-eared Owl is still roosting on the reserve.
On the cliffs there are increasing numbers of Gannets, plenty of Fulmars and the occasional day when there are thousands of Guillemots. A Peregrine has been sighted pretty regularly of late and, of course, Kestrels and Sparrowhawks are ever present. Look closely on the sea and you'll likely find a Red-throated Diver or two as well.
If the feeding station is your cup of tea (and its a good place to enjoy one), there are masses of Tree Sparrows and Greenfinches, a few Goldfinches and Chaffinches and the odd Reed Bunting. Enjoy!